When operating a Current Sense Amplifier (CSA) with differential input Vsense that is near-zero, we must make sure that the amplifier output stays within linear range. One method to avoid swing limitations is output biasing or level shifting. As a result, zero Vsense is included in the linear input range. Bidirectional CSA provides a convenient option for output biasing. Further, at near-zero Vsense, the offset of the amplifier starts to dominate, resulting in high percentage output error. Offset calibration is effective in improving system accuracy at near-zero Vsense. Some legacy products exhibit large output error at low Vsense levels. This limitation is a tradeoff to accommodate wide input common mode range. Recent development addresses this issue and the low Vsense limitation is eliminated in newly released devices.
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